First-term retention of enlisted Selected Marine Corps (SMCR) Reservists

Abstract

This thesis examines factors that influence a male, first-term enlisted reservist's decision to remain in the Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR). Specifically, the logistic regression model was used to determine the relative impact of bio-demographic and both pecuniary and nonpecuniary job factors on retention. Models were developed for both nonprior (NPS) and prior active service (PS) reservists. The database was a combination of the responses of participants in the 1986 Reserve Components Surveys and their personnel records from the Reserve Components Common Personnel Data System. The thesis concludes with reserve policy implications and recommendations for further research. Important findings of this thesis were: Reserve income has a statistically significant and positive impact on SMCR retention. Civilian income was not found to be a factor. Educational benefits, civilian job-related training, and retirement benefits were found to be significant factors in retaining prior service reservists. Keywords: Marine corps personnel, Job training, Personnel retention, Theses